Huge congratulations go to Scott Picard Yr11, for being awarded 1st place in the Korimako Senior English section of Ngā Manu Kōrero ki Te Whanganui-a-Tara yesterday.
Scott gave a compelling prepared kōrero on the topic of ‘He Māori Ahau’, (“I am Māori”). The audience were moved by his words and powerful delivery. Scott will now represent Onslow at the National Competition of Ngā Manu Kōrero, held in Whanganui this September, against other regional winners.
Scott reflected on his win saying “I speak for the people not myself. I go to Nationals not for the trophy, not for the praise, but for every single one of us who has ever been made to feel like we don’t belong.”
The trophy Scott won was gifted in 1965 by Sir Bernard Fergusson (Governor General 1962-1967) when the national speech competition now known as Ngā Manu Kōrero was first established.
This is the second consecutive year that Onslow College has won the Regional Competition of Korimako Senior English. Last year, Billy Paratene secured the title.
We’re so proud of you Scott! Thanks to the tautoko of his whānau, friends, and the Onslow Staff whose mahi supported and encouraged him.
Ngā Manu Kōrero is regarded as the most significant event on the Māori education calendar for nurturing the oratory skills and providing the stage for young people to express their views and to lay down their challenges to an admiring and critical audience of peers, parents, whānau and judges.
